Mt. Washington Auto Road

Mt. Washington Auto Road is a historic privately operated scenic highway that climbs to the 6,288 ft summit of the Northeastern U.S. The road opened in 1861 and offers self‑drive, guided motorcoach, and specialty tours year‑round when conditions allow.

Visitors reach the Sherman Adams Building and the Mt. Washington Observatory facilities at the summit, with panoramic views, interpretive displays, and photo opportunities. Seasonal access and vehicle restrictions apply; check official road status before traveling.

You’ll drive (or ride on a guided tour) up a narrow, winding 7.6‑mile paved road from Pinkham Notch to the summit, stopping for viewpoints and summit facilities. Expect rapidly changing weather and strong winds at the top.

What you’ll see and do:

• Panoramic summit viewpoints and interpretive exhibits in the Sherman Adams Building
• Mt. Washington Observatory’s Extreme Weather exhibits (included on some tours)
• Photo stops looking over the Presidential Range and New England valleys
• Seasonal specialty experiences: guided Discovery tours, sunrise/sunset runs, and SnowCoach/ATV options

Best way to experience it:
Drive yourself for flexibility and the souvenir bumper sticker, or take a guided tour for narrated history, safety on steep sections, and included observatory access. Plan extra time for summit viewing and dress for alpine weather; parking near the summit is limited.

• Road is seasonal and subject to sudden closures; verify current status before you go.
• Vehicle restrictions and safety rules apply—large RVs or trailers may be prohibited.
• Summit weather can be dramatically colder and windier than the base; pack layers.
• Guided tours and specialty runs (Sunrise/SnowCoach) require advance booking.